This time around, the multi-instrumentalist catches up with VIBE.com about his latest project, what it’s like “Being A Girl,” and fills us in on his “Character."
Vibe: “Being A Girl” is one of the singles in rotation on radio stations now. How was it to come up with that song through a man's perpective?
Van Hunt: “Being A Girl” is a collection of conversations I’ve had with woman over my lifetime. It's my recollections of stories from the women in my family. It was very educational and getting them to open up and talk around me was great. I would just sit and listen. Wow, woman are not as fragile as some men think. I’m fortunate to be surrounded by lots of women in my family. It's actually my favorite song on the album.
You get compared a lot to none other than the legendary Prince. What are your thoughts on the comparisons?
right Van Hunt: I actually don’t mind it at all. People relate my music and this project to Prince, which is a great compliment for me and I appreciate it. There’s really no one doing what I do mainstream. I like changing lanes, my music is one big superhighway.
On your acclaimed 2004 self-titled debut, you were quoted as saying, “Pop, it was your lifestyle that inspired me to write the soundtrack for it”. How has your father’s lifestyle affected your music and your personal life?
Van Hunt: In all honesty it’s the backbone of just about all my writings. The sound of my music feels heavier now. My father has spent the last 15 years being the guy he is today and I love him for that.
With the release of On The Jungle Floor, Do you believe you will get more of the recognition you deserve?
Van Hunt: Hopefully. There’s always politics and money involved, two of which I don’t know how good I am at [laughs]. I’ve done my best. I’ve become a better performer with each show and working at full capacity. I’m comfortable now. That’s what I’m sure about.
I know you have a performance scheduled May 8th at the Canal Room (NYC) and currently touring with Anthony Hamilton and Heather Headley. Was there ever a time you weren't comfortable performing in front of an audience?
Van Hunt: Funny you ask. When performing songs off my first album, I was more self conscious. Now, my best shows and crowds have been in Detroit, Seattle and Baltimore. The release party in California has been my number one show for the record. I felt comfortable for the first time. This time around I decided to concentrate on playing my guitar to keep me focused.
Change is good. Would you change anything on this latest project, or the first?
Van Hunt: I wouldn’t change a whole lot except for the interference from the label on the creative side. I could do without that. No one knows the sounds in my head like me. My future albums I really want to be about that. My music is always in my head and I’ve always attempted to get it out.
Who are some of the artist that influenced you on this album?
Van Hunt: My taste is so broad. I’m influenced by Curtis Mayfield, Rick James, David Bowie, Prince & Thelonious Monk, all of which can be heard on the album. One song in particular, “Character,” puts the audience in the mindset of Curtis Mayfield.
Do you feel this is your best effort so far?
Van Hunt: I can’t necessarily say that because the best that I can do people don’t get a chance to hear. It hasn’t made it to mainstream yet.
When it’s all said and done, what’s the one thing you want your fans to know about Van Hunt?
Van Hunt: I’m a private person. I want people to listen to the album and I want them to like it overall. I’m about the music. No gimmicks.
Currently, Capitol Records recording artist Van Hunt is touring with Anthony Hamilton and Heather Headley. For more information on this soulful artist check out Read more vibe.com online exclusives.
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